Charge Framing Hearing for Nanak Tapasand 26 Others Today

The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT)-1 is set to hold a hearing today, Sunday, April 26, on the framing of charges against 28 individuals, including former minister Jahangir Kabir Nanak and former DSCC Mayor Sheikh Fazle Noor Tapas. The accused face charges of crimes against humanity related to the killing of nine people in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur during the July-August 2024 mass uprising.

A judicial panel led by ICT-1 Chairman Justice Md. Golam Mortuza Majumder will preside over the proceedings. The prosecution is expected to argue for the framing of charges first, followed by defense lawyers seeking discharge for the accused.

The hearing was originally scheduled for April 8 and later shifted to April 15. However, it was deferred to today following a prosecution request for more time to prepare documents. Prosecutor Gazi MH Tamim confirmed that both sides are expected to present their arguments during today’s session.

Of the 28 accused, four are currently in custody Naimul Hasan Russell President, banned Chhatra League (Mohammadpur Unit) Sajjad Hossain Vice-president, Chhatra League Omar Faruk Vice-president, Chhatra League Fazle Rabbi Vice-president, Chhatra League

High-profile accused currently absconding include Sheikh Fazle Noor Tapas, former DMP Commissioner Habibur Rahman, former Additional DIG Prolay Kumar Joarder, and former Joint Commissioner Biplob Kumar Sarkar. State-appointed defense lawyers will represent the fugitives.

The prosecution alleges that on July 18 and 19, 2024, law enforcement and Awami League affiliates—acting under the direct instigation of the accused—opened fire on protesters. The violence resulted in nine deaths, including students Mahmudur Rahman Saikat and Farhan Fayaz.